TMC Councilor’s husband allegedly involved in youth's murder; residents demand arrest outside Councilor’s home

Residents of South Dumdum’s Ward 6 staged a protest outside the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) councilor Usha Debnath on Sunday, demanding the arrest of all accused in the murder case of Nayan Saha, a 25-year-old hotel management student and delivery worker. Councilor Usha Debnath’s husband, Abhi Debnath, is among the main suspects, and while one person has been detained, Abhi and several other accused remain at large, leading to heightened unrest among local residents.

The case dates back to February 21, when Nayan was found critically injured after allegedly being assaulted. That morning, he had gone to get his motorcycle serviced when he was attacked, according to his family. Following the assault, he was admitted to Dumdum Municipal Hospital and later transferred to RG Kar Hospital due to worsening injuries. Despite medical intervention, he passed away, leading his family to file a murder complaint with the Dumdum police station.

Nayan’s family alleges that he was targeted over political pressures. His elder brother, Nintu Saha, claims that Abhi Debnath, husband of the TMC councilor, had been pressuring Nayan and his friends to join the Trinamool Congress. When Nayan declined, tensions reportedly escalated. The family claims that Abhi Debnath was present during the attack, and they hold him responsible, along with several others, for Nayan’s death.

After the incident, both councilor Usha Debnath and her husband reportedly went into hiding, along with other TMC associates. Usha returned to her residence recently, which led to a wave of local frustration. On Sunday, residents gathered peacefully outside her home, demanding the arrest of Abhi Debnath and others named in the murder complaint. Protesters urged authorities to prioritize the case and deliver swift justice.

As of now, only one individual has been arrested in connection with the incident. Police have stated that the investigation remains active, but residents continue to express dissatisfaction with the lack of progress.